What happened
On Thursday, November 27, 1997, a Piper PA 34 T Cheyenne, registered F-GELM, was involved in a ground collision at Deauville Aerodrome. The aircraft was performing a private flight from Toussus-le-Noble when it arrived at the parking area.
Upon reaching the parking spot, the pilot applied the parking brake and allowed the engines to remain running at idle. During this period, the pilot turned their attention toward the cockpit interior to switch off the aircraft's heating system. While the pilot was distracted, the aircraft began to move forward, ultimately striking a refueling pump.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the impact with the refueling equipment. Investigators examined the aircraft's configuration and the pilot's actions immediately preceding the collision. It was established that although the parking brake had been engaged, the aircraft's movement was not prevented, leading to the contact with the obstacle.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was insufficient vigilance by the pilot during the taxiing phase.
- The aircraft sustained light damage as a result of the collision.